Program: MD Undergraduate Program, Vancouver-Fraser Medical Program
Class of 2019
Hometown: Toronto, ON
What attracted you to your field of study or research?
The most attractive feature of medicine is knowing that I will be able to help people of all ages, genders and backgrounds regardless of where I am. Personally, I have seen a physician help a distressed elderly individual on an aircraft over 30,000 feet in the sky! This ‘power’ to help beyond your typical hospital or office setting and literally beyond any borders is what excites me! This is also what led me to study medicine and I know that my end goal is not to know everything, but to use whatever little bit I do learn to make a difference in how people see and live their lives.
What excites you about the upcoming year?
I am going into my second year of medical school still wondering where the first year went! Time absolutely flew last year and I am expecting the same to happen this year as well. I look forward to connecting again with the great group of close friends I made last year and also with the rest of my wonderful peers. I am a big fan of the new FLEX program at UBC and my project this year will be at the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, which I have always wanted to be a part of! I am really looking forward to that experience. Apart from school, I also look forward to spending my time in Vancouver and exploring beautiful British Columbia a little more.
What’s one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
Despite being born and brought-up in Toronto, when it comes to hockey, I am actually a die-hard fan of one of the rival, The Ottawa Senators (Go Sens Go)!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I see myself pursuing a residency program in the area that would have interested me the most during my time at UBC Medicine. Having been away from home, I expect to be a better cook by then as well! Hopefully, I don’t lose any more of my hair either!
Best piece of advice: Make sure to maintain a good work-life balance (physician burnout is real!) We received this advice a lot in first year and I truly support it. For me, joining intramural sport teams, the Bhangra dance team, and working out at the gym really helped offset any stress from school. Pick something that works for you and stick to it.
Last vacation destination: India in 2011, after my high school graduation. Another trip is long overdue!